How to Prevent UTIs and Yeast Infections During Summer?

Both urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal yeast infections are more common in summer because of heat and humidity. A vaginal yeast infection results from an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, which creates severe itching, burning, and changes in vaginal discharge. They are common infections but can be painful and disrupt your life. Luckily, they can be treated with antifungal drugs. If you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you must seek the advice of a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. For the best treatment, you can go to the best gynecology hospital nearby, where experienced professionals can provide individualized treatment plans to make you healthy and treat a vaginal yeast infection properly.

Visit our gynecologists for a customized treatment plan and expert advice. Call us today at +91 9667064100.

What is Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Vaginal yeast infection is a very prevalent form of fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of one of the yeasts known as Candida. Candida is a normal resident in small quantities in places like your mouth, digestive tract, and vagina. Candida is fine in good conditions since the "good" bacteria within your body keep it under control. When the balance is upset, however, Candida can quickly get out of hand and cause a yeast infection.
A vaginal yeast infection produces symptoms of burning, itching, vulvar redness (the outer regions of the vagina), and alterations in vaginal discharge. It is not an STI. Another name for a vaginal yeast infection is vulvovaginal candidiasis or vaginal candidiasis. It is a type of vaginitis, which is inflammation, pain, and potential infection of the vagina. While there are various forms of vaginitis, yeast infection is one of the most prevalent. 

What Does a Vaginal Yeast Infection Look Like?

A vaginal yeast infection may make visible changes to your vulva and vaginal discharge look and feel. The outside skin of your vaginal opening might get red and itchy, and the hurt is worse with sex or with urination. Your vaginal discharge can be thicker and lumpy-looking, but usually will not smell really awful. Not all women get symptoms, and the type of symptoms and how bad they are vary.

Who is at risk of vaginal yeast infections?

Even though anyone who has a vagina can get a yeast infection, most commonly they occur in women after puberty and before menopause. Several factors can make someone more likely to have a yeast infection, but it is said that yeast infections are very common and are treated easily.

How common are vaginal yeast infections?

About 75% of women will get one or more vaginal yeast infections during their lifetime, and more than half will get two or more. Yeast infections are the second most frequent cause of vaginitis, after bacterial vaginosis.

What Raises the Risk of a Yeast Infection?

There are a number of different things that can increase the risk of getting a vaginal yeast infection, including:
 

• Medications: The use of antibiotics, birth control pills, or certain steroids.
   
• Pregnancy: Changes in hormonal levels during pregnancy can create a fertile ground for yeast to multiply.
   
• Weakened Immune System: HIV or autoimmune illnesses might render the individual more prone.
   
• Untreated Diabetes: Blood glucose elevation provides an environment in which yeast multiplies easily.

Lifestyle choices may also cause an increase in the susceptibility of yeast infection to include:

• Being seated in a wet swimsuit for hours on end.
   
• Having sweaty underwear on for hours on end.
   
• Application of scented tampons or vaginal deodorants.

Symptoms and Causes of Vaginal Yeast Infection

What are the Symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection composed of?

Vaginal yeast infection is defined by various typical symptoms such as:

• Itchy or Burning Sensation: Persistent itchy or burning sensation on your vagina and vulva.
   
• Thick, White Discharge: Thick white discharge from your vagina with cottage cheese texture.
   
• Redness and Swelling: Vulva and vagina becoming red and swollen.
   
• Small Cuts or Cracks: Sensitive skin can result in small cuts or cracks on the surrounding vulva area.
   
• Painful Urination: Burning while urinating.
   
• Sexual Pain: In a few instances, vaginal yeast infection hurts during intercourse.

All are symptoms that can be shared by sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) or other vaginal infections and hence, should have a proper diagnosis made through consultation with a physician.

Why Do Yeast Infections Occur in the Vagina? 

Yeast infection of the vagina happens when your normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is interrupted, and the candida yeast can spread freely. Certain typical reasons for such interruption are:
 

• Use of Antibiotics: Antibiotics destroy good bacteria as well as bad bacteria, and this can shatter the vaginal flora, resulting in a yeast infection.
   
• Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, birth control pills, or the menstrual cycle might cause hormonal changes that provide an environment for the overgrowth of yeast.
   
• Untreated Diabetes: Untreated diabetes can raise the blood sugar levels, which form a good culture medium for the growth of yeast.
   
• Weakened Immune System: HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, and radiation treatment are a few of the diseases that can weaken your immune system, thus making it difficult to combat infection.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is a Yeast Infection Diagnosed?

To confirm a vaginal yeast infection, your doctor will take a history of your symptoms and might take a sample of the discharge from the vagina for analysis. The test is done to confirm the presence of yeast and if you have the kind of infection. Your doctor uses the combination of your symptoms and test results to choose the best course of treatment.

Management and Treatment

How Do I Treat a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

The majority of vaginal yeast infections are treated with antifungal drugs, either oral or used directly in the area, depending on the severity of the infection.
 

• Oral Medicines: Fluconazole is usually administered by a single dose.
   
• Topical Therapy: Cream, ointment, or vaginal suppositories (vaginal tablets) are used once a day for seven days. Examples of antifungal drugs include miconazole (Monistat®) and terconazole.

Your physician will instruct you on the proper use of the drug. You should so that the infection is cured once and for all and does not recur.

For successful treatment, abstain from sexual intercourse after you have completed your medication. Sex can inflame the vagina, and antifungal medication thins out condoms or diaphragms.

Can I Cure a Vaginal Yeast Infection Using Over-the-Counter Medication?

Over-the-counter medications are potent enough to cure a vaginal yeast infection, but you need to consult first your doctor so that you will know you have a yeast infection and can select the right treatment for it.

How Long Do Yeast Infections Last?

With treatment, the majority of yeast infections will clear up within a few days, but it may take up to a week for them to completely go away. More severe infections are longer lasting and require a longer course of treatment. It is necessary to complete the treatment prescribed in order not to have the infection come back.

Will My Yeast Infection Go Away on Its Own?

No, a yeast infection will not disappear by itself. Antifungal medication must be employed to treat the infection and avoid it getting worse.

Prevention

How to Prevent UTIs and Yeast Infections in Hot Weather

Hot weather is likely to bring an increased risk of both urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal yeast infections because of the heat and excess moisture. A vaginal yeast infection happens when the fungus Candida grows excessively, causing changes in vaginal discharge, itching, and burning. These infections are prevalent and quite painful, derailing your regular activities. Fortunately, they are curable using antifungal drugs.

To avoid these infections during summer, follow these key tips:
 

• Stay Hydrated: Drink sufficient water during the day to eliminate bacteria from your urinary tract and ensure a good balance of vaginal flora.
   
• Practice Good Hygiene: Always wipe from front to back and make sure the genital area is clean and dry to prevent the possibility of bacteria or yeast overgrowth.
   
• Wear Breathable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothes to minimize moisture buildup and friction, both of which contribute to yeast growth.
   
• Change Out of Wet Clothes Quickly: Whether you’ve been swimming or working out, change out of wet clothes promptly to prevent bacterial or fungal growth.
   
• Avoid Fragrances: Avoid using fragrant douches, pads, and tampons since they will disrupt the normal balance of yeast and bacteria in the vaginal flora.
   
• Use Water-Based Lubricants: If you are having sex, use water-based lubricants so that you may avoid irritation, which is bound to lead to infection.
   
• Manage Blood Sugar: If you have diabetes, maintain your blood sugar under control because high blood sugar makes one susceptible to yeast infection.

In case you have been showing signs of a vaginal yeast infection, please visit a professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. For the most effective care, visit the best gynecology hospital in noida where skilled professionals will be able to provide you with customized treatment procedures to help manage and recover from a vaginal yeast infection effectively.

What Do I Do If I Get Yeast Infections Really Often?

If you get more than four vaginal yeast infections each year, talk to your healthcare provider. They might:

• Check your diagnosis with a vaginal yeast infection test.
   
• Give you a blood sugar test for diabetes.
   
• Test you for HIV/AIDS if they think you might need it.
   
• Check for changes in hormones because of birth control or pregnancy.

Your doctor will treat you based on the test findings. Treatment of the underlying cause can help avert recurrent yeast infections.

Is My Sex Partner to Be Treated If I Have a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

While a yeast infection can be transmitted to a sexual partner, in men it is not of much concern. If your female sexual partner becomes infected, she will probably need to watch for symptoms and be treated as needed.

Meet Our Expert Team of Gynecologist for vaginal yeast infections

At Felix Hospital, we know that prevention of vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs) is important, particularly in the summer season. Our skilled gynecologists are here to keep you healthy and avoid these repeated infections:
 

• Dr. Sangeeta Sharma
   
• Dr. Charu Yadav
   
• Dr. Suniya Kuruvilla
   
• Dr. Archana Rathi
   
• Dr. Pragati Jain
   
• Dr. Swati Thakur
   

These experts are committed to providing expert advice and personalized care to prevent UTIs and yeast infections and improve your general reproductive health.

Seek professional treatment and prevention of UTIs and yeast infections at Felix Hospital. Make a booking today by Clicking Here.

Conclusion

During the hot summer season, the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) and vaginal yeast infection is higher, but by taking simple preventive steps, you can go a long way in avoiding these annoying conditions. Drinking plenty of water, proper hygiene, wearing loose clothing, and controlling underlying medical conditions such as diabetes are essential steps to take in order to keep the vagina and urinary tract healthy. If you experience symptoms of yeast infection or UTI, a visit to a medical doctor is necessary in order to initiate treatment early enough and prevent complications.
For individual counseling and treatment, don't hesitate to book an appointment with our experienced gynecologists at Felix Hospital. Our professionals work tirelessly for your well-being and health at all stages of life. And with our reasonable charge for gynecology treatment, you know that you are receiving the best treatment possible at a cost that will not break your bank. Call us now to find out more about the cost of treatment and how we can help you achieve good health.

FAQs about Vaginal yeast infection

1. Can hot weather actually trigger yeast infections?
Ans: Yes, humid and hot weather can predispose a person to yeast infections because there is a lot of sweating and moisture, which is conducive for the growth of fungi.

2. What are some of the home remedies for vaginal yeast infection?
Ans: Although some home treatments such as coconut oil and probiotics can be alleviating, a health expert must perform a visit to get an accurate diagnosis and antifungal medication.

3. Can men develop vaginal yeast infections?
Ans: Vaginal yeast infections are not common in men, but yes, they can develop, especially if they have a compromised immune system or other condition.

4. Can yeast infections be caused by a poor diet?
Ans: Poor eating habits, particularly diets high in sugar, may boost the chances of developing a yeast infection since sugar feeds Candida. Eating healthy can keep the body at a good balance of bacteria and yeast.

5. Do I need my partner to be treated if I have a yeast infection?
Ans: In general, men do not need treatment unless they become symptomatic. But if your partner is a woman, they will need to watch for symptoms and get treated if they occur.

6. How long does it take for yeast infections to clear up with treatment?
Ans: Most yeast infections clear up within a few days to a week with appropriate antifungal treatment. More severe cases will take longer, but it is important to finish the prescribed treatment to get completely better.